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Regulation information
24 July 2026
III 12 Summary Report
The sub-committee on the Implementation of IMO Instruments (III) plays a key role in the analysis of port State control data and keeps under review the procedures for port State control. It is also responsible for updating the survey guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification (HSSC) on every two years and brings together flag, port and coastal States to consider implementation issues, including the analysis of consolidated audit summary reports from the mandatory IMO Member State Audit Scheme.
Outcomes from III 12:
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The draft amendments to the 2025 Procedures for Port State Control (A.1206(34)), were progressed, including new guidance for PSCOs on machinery and maintenance inspections and revised PSCO qualification requirements, with the 2027 edition of the PSC Procedures planned to enter into effect on 1 January 2028.
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The draft amendments to the Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification (HSSC) 2025 (A.1207(34)) were progressed, including updates to reflect new IMO requirements, upcoming pilot transfer arrangement provisions, and the introduction of a coding system for remote surveys, with the 2027 edition of the HSSC Procedures planned to enter into effect on 1 January 2028.
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The draft amendments to MSC/Circ.1140 – MEPC/Circ.424 on Transfer of ships between States were finalised, introducing a notification mechanism for ships deregistered without a new flag State, these are expected to be approved by MSC 112 and MEPC 85 in late 2026.